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I introduced almonds as my first snack of choice in ezine no. 6. I recommended walnuts as your second snack of choice in ezine no. 11 You learned the secrets of Brazil nuts on ezine no. 16. So what about peanuts? Peanuts are an excellent source of protein, fiber, vitamin E, essential minerals, and the proven anti-aging nutrient resveratrol. Consumption of peanuts has been shown to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes. So why then peanuts are the last in my snack priority list? Peanuts among the most contaminated foods you can eat. Because they are vulnerable to pests, they are sprayed with more pesticides than almost any other crop. And because of their porous shells and constant contact with moist soil, they are prone to develop a toxic (and potentially carcinogenic) mold called aflatoxin. Because aflatoxin is so potent, the US government requires peanuts to be rigorously tested for it. As a result, the risk of an acute reaction to this mold is extremely unlikely. But very small amounts do get through - and even in small amounts, long-term exposure to aflatoxin can cause cancer and a wide range of health problems. Is peanut butter better? Peanut butter is usually made with hydrogenated oil (a trans-fat). And according to the National Academy of Science's Institute of Medicine, it isn't safe to consume any hydrogenated fat. Most peanut butter brands also contain sugar which we want to skip. Usually I don’t recommend organic food because of the high cost and the unproven benefits. But in case of peanuts or peanut butter I prefer organic brands.
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Dov Oshri is the author of the revolutionary Anti-Aging Fitness Program "Change Your Body and Be Admired". He is the chief editor of Body for Mind – a Wellness Lifestyle for Successful People. His cutting edge Anti-Aging Fitness Program can be downloaded for FREE at www.bodyformind.com
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